Zambia and France Explore Mining Partnership to Boost Economic Growth
Zambia and France are exploring a strategic partnership in the mining sector aimed at boosting economic growth and value addition.
The discussions followed a courtesy call by the French Ambassador to Zambia, H.E. Thomas Rossignol, on the Permanent Secretary of Mines and Minerals Development, Dr. Hapenga Kabeta, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Lusaka.
Ambassador Rossignol highlighted France’s readiness to support Zambia with technical expertise, loans, and investment to develop the country’s rich mineral resources.
“France is ready to offer expertise, loans, and technical support to help Zambia develop its mining sector. We believe Zambia has tremendous potential for growth,” he said.
Dr. Kabeta welcomed the offer, emphasising Zambia’s ambition to move beyond exporting raw minerals and instead create local value.
“This aligns with our 8th National Development Plan, which prioritises industrialisation and economic diversification. We invite French investors to take advantage of Zambia’s attractive investment climate and contribute to our economic growth,” he said.
The meeting focused on potential areas of collaboration, including sustainable mining practices, skills development, local content enhancement, and infrastructure development. Renewable energy investment, particularly in solar and hydropower, was also discussed as a means of supporting Zambia’s mining sector and energy security.
Dr. Kabeta highlighted Zambia’s stable political environment, abundant natural resources, and strategic regional location, stating that the country is committed to creating a conducive business climate for investors.
He also noted that recent debt restructuring has strengthened the economy, boosting growth to 6.5 per cent and enabling increased investment in key sectors such as mining and infrastructure.
Ambassador Rossignol expressed confidence in Zambia’s potential and pledged continued support for mutually beneficial partnerships in mining and beyond. Senior officials from the Ministry and the French Embassy in Zambia attended the meeting, which is expected to lead to concrete proposals for cooperation and investment in the coming months.
